The Orioles (46-51) begin the unofficial second half of the season with a three-game road series gainst the Houston Astros (47-51), starting tonight at Daikin Park.
And the race is on for the postseason from here on out, with Baltimore two games back from the American League's final wild card spot and a bunch of teams competiting for positioning, including Houston. Baltimore is riding its first four-game winning streak of the year, though this week's All-Star break served as an interruption on the baseball calendar.
The Orioles rolled past Kansas City 8-2 on Sunday behind a balanced offensive effort led by Leody Taveras, who went 2-for-4 with a home run and three RBI. Gunnar Henderson added a 3-for-5 day with an RBI, while Samuel Basallo contributed a solo home run.
All was going well, but then Blaze Alexander was hit by an errant pitch late in the game and fractured his hand. He's on the 10-day IL and yesterday the Orioles recalled infielder Christian Encarnacion-Strand to take Alexander's place on the roster.
Houston sits a half-game behind Baltimore in the standings and presents a capable challenge. Peter Lambert takes the ball for the Astros with an 8-5 record and a 3.14 ERA. Dean Kremer starts for Baltimore. He'll be looking for a steady outing in his first time out since July 8, when he allowed four home runs but otherwise pitched well in five innings.
"Not really looking to change my approach," Kremer said after his last outing. "The ball's been coming out pretty good this whole year."
With the trade deadline only 14 days away, the Orioles' positioning as a buyer or seller, or "nothing" at the trade deadline remains unsettled at 46-51. Taking this series would sharpen the argument buying or holding pat.
Probable Starters
Baltimore Orioles: Dean Kremer (1-2, 4.09 ERA)
Houston Astros: Peter Lambert (8-5, 3.14 ERA)
Where to Watch/Listen
First pitch: 8:10 PM ET at Daikin Park
Weather: 91°F, Overcast
TV: MASN
Radio: 98 Rock (97.9 FM) and WBAL NewsRadio (AM 1090 / FM 101.5)